Rep. Paul Cook (R-8th District-Apple Valley) recently hosted a meeting with Rodrigo Maia, speaker of Brazil’s National Chamber of Deputies and members of its committee to discuss U.S.-Brazil bilateral relations, the crisis in Venezuela and counter-narcotics efforts. Rep. Cook is the U.S. Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere.

Speaking on the meeting Rep. Cook said, “As one of the largest democracies in the world, Brazil is a key U.S. partner and important leader in the Western Hemisphere. I commend Speaker Maia for his leadership in the Brazilian Congress, particularly in working with legislatures in the region to address the growing crisis in Venezuela. Our two countries cooperate closely on trade, security, energy, science and innovation, and education issues. Yet, we could – and should – consider ways to elevate the bilateral relationship even further. I look forward to continuing today’s conversation in the days ahead as we work towards achieving a more democratic, secure, and prosperous region.”

Rep. Cook is Yucaipa’s U.S. Congressman and he maintains a field office in Yucaipa. He is currently a member of the House Natural Resources, Armed Services, and Foreign Affairs Committees. Rep. Cook served as an infantry officer and retired after 26 years as a Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps. During his time in combat, he was awarded the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts.

Rep. Cook’s Yucaipa office is at 34282 Yucaipa Boulevard. The Yucaipa office phone number is 909-797-4900; please call prior to visiting the office in order to confirm hours of availability.